Nothing quite creates a winter holiday ambiance as well as a log in the fireplace and family gathered around to bask in its warmth and glow. Of course, playing with or near fire is dangerous for children, so please remember these tips from the AAP before you light your hearth.

• If possible, keep a window cracked open while the fire is burning.
• Be certain the damper or flue is open before starting a fire. Keeping the damper or flue open until the fire is out will draw smoke out of the house. The damper can be checked by looking up into the chimney with a flashlight or mirror. Do not close the damper until the embers have completely stopped burning.
• Use dry and well-aged wood. Wet or green wood causes more smoke and contributes to soot buildup in the chimney. Dried wood burns with less smoke and burns more evenly.
• Smaller pieces of wood placed on a grate burn faster and produce less smoke.
• Clean out ashes from previous fires. Levels of ash at the base of the fireplace should be kept to 1 inch or less because a thicker layer restricts the air supply to logs, resulting in more smoke.
• The chimney should be checked annually by a professional.
• Even if the chimney is not due for cleaning, it is important to check for animal nests or other blockages that could prevent smoke from escaping.
• Minimize your child's chance of burns from the hot glass front of some fireplaces, including gas fireplaces. Safety screens can be installed to reduce the risk of burns.
• Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of anything that is potentially flammable (ie: furniture, drapes, newspapers, books, etc.). If these items get too close to the fireplace, they could catch fire.
• Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended. Make sure it is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house. If you leave the room while the fire is burning or the fireplace is still hot, take your small child with you.
• Put fireplace tools and accessories out of a young child's reach. Also, remove any lighters and matches.
• Install both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.
• Talk with children as early as possible the dangers of fires and the heat coming from them.

Have a wonderful and safe holiday season from Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Source: healthychildren.org

For many people, owning your own home is a major life goal, but the process can be daunting. Large loans like mortgages have a set of processes and a commitment level that can intimidate first-time buyers, but with these tips, you can get through the financing, search and application process with ease.

Start with realistic goals

When you decide that owning a home is a life goal, you will first need to assess your finances. Typically, mortgage loans require a cash down payment before approval, which means you may need to save until you have a suitable amount ready. The average down payment typically needed to be eligible for the best interest rates is 20 percent of the sales price. For a home listed at $200,000 you would need around $40,000 saved as the down payment.

After you set your savings budget, determine exactly what you need in a house and separate those factors from what you want in a house. For instance, if keeping or decreasing your work commute is a priority, then a location near your job site is essential. Factors that may not matter as much to you should be relegated to a nice-to-have list, like a finished basement, or hard wood floors.

After considering the down payment and critical home features, the next stage of home buying boils down to how much you can afford.

Understand total homeownership costs

Home ownership costs do not start and end with the down payment and purchase price. There are long-term expenses associated with owning a home, which can include:

• Maintenance and repair costs
• Homeowner association fees
• Lawn care
• Property taxes
• Homeowner insurance
• Utility bills

Once you have recognized the total amount you feel comfortable spending on your home each month, add up the local and average costs of the above factors. That total should be subtracted from what you feel comfortable spending on your home each month and the remainder is your ideal monthly mortgage payment amount.

Pre-approval is crucial

Before you start the home search process, choose a mortgage lender to help you navigate the process. Finance professionals will help you choose the right mortgage, and will let you know the amount of home loan you qualify for through pre-approval.

Obtaining a pre-approval loan amount kick starts your search because it can act as a budget reality check, while also demonstrating to sellers that you are serious about purchasing. Professionals can also help you find governmental assistance programs for first-time home buyers, and will provide information about home prices and the buying market in your area.

With these tips in mind, you can begin your home search armed with information about your finances, the market and the exact features you need in a home.

Source: UMB

Tax planning is for everyone. Get ready today to file your federal income tax return. Planning ahead can help you file an accurate return and avoid delays that can slow your tax refund.

Steps you can take now to make tax filing easier

• Create or access your account information at IRS.gov/account
• Gather and organize your tax records
• Check your individual tax identification number (ITIN)
• Make sure you've withheld enough tax
• Get banked to speed tax refunds with direct deposit

What's new and what to consider the next time you file

• Taxpayers may receive a Form 1099-K
• Changes that may affect your tax refund
• Avoid refund delays and understand refund timing

Bookmark IRS.gov resources and online tools

Make your first stop IRS.gov where you'll find online tools to help you get the information you need. The tools are easy-to-use and available 24 hours a day. Millions of people use them to help file and pay taxes, find information about their accounts, and get answers to tax questions.

• File your taxes
• Get your refund status
• Volunteer to help eligible taxpayers file in your community
• Protect yourself and your money
• Download publications

IRS.gov

You are an integral part of the Lallis & Higgins Insurance family and we are so grateful for your support!

In the spirit of the Thanksgiving season, we want to give thanks to all of you, our exceptional clients who make our growth not just possible, but worthwhile. Our customers are the reason we thrive and the reason we are here. Thank you so much for choosing us time and time again. The economy may be in a struggle right now, but we do know one thing: Without your loyalty, your feedback, and your support, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

May this Thanksgiving be as joyful as you deserve, and the start of a fun and happy holiday season and a successful and healthy new year! In this time of giving thanks, we want to thank you, our customers. Wishing you all the best, and a very happy Thanksgiving.

Nearly 49 million people are expected to take to the highways to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends* — making it one of the busiest times of the year for road traffic.

If you’re planning to travel by car, try to avoid the peak travel times and follow these American Red Cross tips to help keep you safe:

1. Make sure your car is in good condition for a road trip.
2. Pack an emergency preparedness kit, supplies and a first aid kit in your vehicle.
3. Share travel plans with a family member or friend.
4. Check the weather before departing and along your route. Plan for travel around any storms that may be coming.
5. Be well rested and alert.
6. Buckle up, slow down and don’t drive impaired.
7. Follow the rules of the road and use caution in work zones.
8. Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
9. Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.
10. If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible.

If winter weather threatens and you become stuck in the snow, these tips are for you:

• Stay with the car. Do not try to walk to safety.
• Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
• Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up in the car.
• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running to help rescuers see the vehicle.
• Keep one window, away from the blowing wind, slightly open to let in fresh air.
• Carry an emergency preparedness kit in the trunk.
• Keep your car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.

PLANES, TRAINS Almost six million people will take a plane or train to get to where they are spending their holiday. If you’re one of them:

• Remember that everything you touch has to be touched by someone else — other passengers, luggage handlers, etc. Handle your own belongings as much as possible.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• It’s flu season. If you’ve been sick or been in contact with someone who is sick, consider postponing your trip. You could be contagious for a week before symptoms appear.
• Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes with you. You can use them to wash your hands or wipe down surfaces such as armrests.
• Bring your own pillows and blankets — they can act as a shield against the seat itself.
• Avoid touching your face or eyes. If you have to cough or sneeze, do so into a tissue or your sleeve.

Bonus tip: Download the Red Cross Emergency app for safety tips and customizable weather alerts for where you and your loved ones live, and areas where you are traveling.

Source: redcross.org

Veterans Day is a time to honor and thank those who have served in the military for their sacrifices and dedication. It’s an important day to show appreciation.

You might consider writing a heartfelt letter or spending time with a veteran, listening to their stories and sharing in their experiences. Volunteering at a local veterans' organization or donating to nonprofits that support veterans' health and well-being can also make a meaningful impact. Even simple acts like attending a Veterans Day ceremony or flying the American flag show respect and solidarity.

Your efforts can help veterans feel valued and supported, not just on this day, but throughout the year.

Here are some ideas.

Say "Thank You Veterans" by Showing Up

Attend a Veterans Day event in your area -- not just a picnic with friends but an honest-to-goodness parade or service for veterans. Roy Rogers said, "We can't all be heroes; someone has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by." Veterans Day is a great opportunity to do just that.

Donate to Veteran-Focused Charities

There are a plethora of wonderful organizations that offer all manner of support, services and appreciation for our service members. To get a few ideas for veteran donations, check out some charities that make a difference in the veteran community.

Fly a Flag - Correctly

• Veterans Day is a great opportunity to fly the flag. Just make sure you're observing the proper rules for display. Here are a few of those important tips:
• Never drag a U.S. flag on the ground or let it touch the ground.
• Don't drape it over the hood, top, sides or back of a vehicle.
• Don't display the U.S. flag above any other flag, and keep it at the center when it's surrounded by other flags.
• Don't display a tattered or torn flag. Flags that are tattered and torn should be disposed of in a respectful way, preferably by burning.
• Never use the flag as apparel, bedding or drapery.
• Ask Someone About Their Service

It seems like we all know someone who has served, and Veterans Day is a great time to ask them about their service. Learning more about their service can help you appropriately say "thank you."

Questions You Can Ask Veterans

• Here are some questions to get you started:
• What did you do in the military?
• How long did you serve?
• What was your favorite moment in all your time in the service?
• Did anyone else in your family serve?
• Why did you go into the service branch that you did?

Do not ask whether they've killed anyone. If you’re talking to a combat vet, be supportive without being intrusive. Sometimes you don't have to say much of anything; just listen and give them your full attention.

Write a Letter to Say ‘Thank you, Veterans’

If you know a veteran, write a simple letter, postcard or email that recognizes them on Veterans Day. If you don't know a veteran, look up the closest military installation and send one there. Small acts of recognizing someone's service, even anonymously, are appreciated.

The military-focused nonprofit Soldiers' Angels organizes volunteers to write letters to deployed troops, veterans and their caregivers through its Letters for Soldiers initiative.

Don't Confuse Veterans Day with Memorial Day

Veterans Day is a time to thank those who are serving or have served and are still with us. Memorial Day is to reflect and remember those who lost their lives in service to their country. Confusing the two or combining the two diminishes the importance of both.

Visit a VA Hospital

Find out what the policies are at your nearest VA hospital for interacting with patients or volunteering, and spend the day with a veteran. Many VA facilities will have events on Veterans Day or a special lunch you can help prepare. Even if you never interact with a veteran, helping at a facility is a way to give back and saying "thank you veterans."

Get Outdoors with a Veteran

Invite a veteran or a military family to explore a national park; admission is free for all visitors on Veterans Day. Being outside helps improve physical and mental health, boosts emotional well-being and is a great way to celebrate the day with a veteran.

Source: military.com

The National Sleep Foundation’s Drowsy Driving Prevention Week® encourages everyone to prioritize sleep and drive when they are alert and refreshed. Our goal is to help people get the sleep they need and reduce the number of drivers who choose to drive while sleep-deprived.

Together, we can help people drive alert and work to prevent thousands of motor vehicle crashes each year.

Fall-asleep crashes are often caused by not getting the sleep you need

Drowsy driving is more likely to cause a crash.

Just like drunk, drugged, and distracted driving, drowsy driving is a real public health issue, causing thousands of car crashes each year and killing an estimated 6,400 people in the U.S. alone according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports an estimated 100,000 crashes each year are caused primarily by drowsy driving, resulting in more than 71,000 injuries and $12.5 million in damages.

Drowsy driving is really risky.

When you drive without adequate sleep, your motor skills are seriously impaired. In fact, we’ll go as far as saying that drivers who’ve only slept 3 to 5 hours in the last 24 hours are unfit to drive. Most people understand it’s risky, but they don’t think about the consequences.

Drowsy driving is dangerously common.

Young drivers (aged 16-25 years) and shift workers are at greatest risk of falling asleep behind the wheel, but most drivers can relate to a time when they have nodded off while driving. Importantly, drowsy driving is preventable.

Source: thensf.org/

Halloween is a time for spooky thrills and imagination. But the holiday also brings some extra risks for children and teens.

Did you know that child pedestrian injuries are more likely on Halloween than on any other night of the year, for example? Help keep Halloween fun and safe for your family with these tips.

Safety on the trick-or-treat trail

Halloween street smarts

• Always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds. If trick-or-treating doesn't start until after dark where you live, consider checking with your town or park district for Halloween activities offered earlier in the day. Research shows that evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. are the riskiest times of day for child pedestrians. Earlier festivities also help you stick to your child's regular bedtime.
• If your older children are trick-or-treating alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home and get flashlights with batteries for everyone.
• Talk with kids about the risk of distracted walking. This includes text messaging, talking on or looking at their cell phone and listening to music.
• Cross the street as a group in established crosswalks. Most (62%) child pedestrian traffic fatalities occurred mid-block, rather than at intersections. Make sure kids know not to cross the street between parked cars or out of driveways or alleys.
• Don't assume cars will stop just because they have the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters.

Stay on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic. Only go to homes with a porch light on and, ideally, a well-lit pathway.

Source: healthychildren.org

Whether your family’s version of Halloween fun involves thrills and chills at one of the scariest haunted houses, trick-or-treating, pumpkin patches, or something in between, there’s one thing you can’t go without: a great costume.

Sure, everyone in the family could do their own thing, but why not wow the neighborhood with an epic group costume instead?

We’ve found a bunch of easy, DIY family Halloween costume ideas to make the most of this spooky season. Copy one of these great costumes, put your own twist on a classic, or take inspiration from your favorite book, movie and TV characters —either way, you can’t go wrong.

And, don’t worry if you can’t sew.  There are plenty of no-sew ideas on this list. Plus, plenty of budget-friendly options that can be made out of clothes you already own. Check out the links for each costume idea for easy how-to instructions.

Halloween is a great time to allow kids to express their creativity, get active, and learn responsibility. From a holistic health and wellness perspective, these are great attributes to help develop well-rounded and emotionally healthy little ones.

Source: partnersinpediatrics.com

This easy caramel apples recipe is a must-try! Coat crisp, tart apples with perfectly sweet, glossy from-scratch caramel for a festive fall treat or gift the whole family will love. (Plus, get ideas for how to decorate your caramel apples!)

It’s fall, and that means apple recipes galore in my house, whether I’m whipping up an apple dessert or decorating delicious caramel apples with the boys! With a few simple ingredients, basic tools, and a little time, you can make gourmet caramel apples right in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Unlike regular salted caramel sauce, the homemade caramel for this easy recipe is thick, buttery, and clings to the apples perfectly. The caramel for caramel apples needs to be sticky enough to hold on to the apple but soft enough to eat, which is why I add corn syrup to the caramel. It cannot be substituted here and is the simple trick for perfect homemade caramel apples.

Which apples are good for this?

Granny Smith apples are the best apple for caramel apples. They are very tart, which balances out the sweet caramel. Honeycrisp apples also taste really good! No matter the type of apple you use, make sure that it is firm, with no soft spots.

Equipment

Candy thermometer
Apple sticks
Silicone mats or parchment paper
Medium pot
Wooden spoon
Brush

Ingredients

10 Granny Smith Apples
2 cups packed light brown sugar (440g)
1½ cups heavy cream (360mL)
1 cup light corn syrup (240mL)
5 tablespoons unsalted butter (70g)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Apple Preparation:

Remove all stems from apples and wash them by rubbing the skin vigorously with a paper or kitchen towel in hot water to remove the wax coating. Dry well. Push an apple stick or wooden skewer into the stem end to create a handle. Refrigerate the apples for faster caramel setting.

For the Caramel:

In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, cream, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Place over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the butter has melted.

Once melted, brush down the side of the pot with a wet pastry brush. Cook without stirring while occasionally brushing the sides down until the temperature reaches between 235°F and 240°F on a candy thermometer.

Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla then set aside to cool for 10 to 20 minutes. The caramel is ready for dipping once it’s cooled to about 190°F. You can always dip a test apple to see if it looks right.

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, a silicone mat, or lightly grease the sheet with butter.

Dip an apple into the caramel, allow the excess to drip off then place on the baking sheet to cool. If desired you can add a drizzle of chocolate or roll in chopped nuts or sprinkles before the caramel sets. Refrigerate the apples until the caramel is set, 15 to 30 minutes.

Recipe/Image: preppykitchen.com